Viera Wetlands

The Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands a.k.a Viera Wetlands, is a water treatment facility that offers superb birding by car, foot or bicycle. Pick up a map and checklist and read the sightings log at the entrance kiosk. Crested Caracaras nest at this site; check the sabal palms and pines near the start of the loop drive and along the wetland perimeter. Drive the impoundment roads around the four shallow-water cells (follow the signs and do not block the roadways), scanning for waterbirds like Wood Duck, Least Bittern, King Rail, Limpkin, Glossy Ibis, Roseate Spoonbill, Black-necked Stilt and Purple Gallinule. Shorebird diversity is outstanding – scarce migrants such as American Golden-Plover, Upland Sandpiper and Buff-breasted Sandpiper have been recorded. Two observation towers provide vantage to scan for raptors such as Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, Cooper’s Hawk and the occasional Snail Kite. Rarities spotted here include Masked Duck and Mangrove Swallow. Butterfly enthusiasts should check the demonstration garden by the gazebo and the shoreline along the central lake. Call ahead to check for possible road closures; the dirt impoundment roads may close following inclement weather. A second group of ponds (locally known as the “Dan Click Ponds” or “Duda Ponds”) can be accessed from a dirt road on the north side of Wickham Rd., across from the main entrance. The outer perimeter of these ponds can be birded by car or foot.